The sleuthing monk unravels a thorny case of murder in this “accomplished whodunit meticulously wrought with a wealth of medieval detail” (Booklist). A late spring in 1142 brings dismay to the Abbey of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, for there may be no roses by June 22. On that day the young widow Perle must receive one white rose as rent for the house she has given to benefit the abbey, or the … given to benefit the abbey, or the contract is void. When nature finally complies, a pious monk is sent to pay the rent—and is found murdered beside the hacked rosebush.
The abbey’s wise herbalist, Brother Cadfael, follows the trail of bloodied petals. He knows the lovely widow’s dowry is far greater with her house included, and she will likely wed again. Before Cadfael can ponder if a greedy suitor has done this dreadful deed, another crime is committed. Now the good monk must thread his way through a tangle more tortuous than the widow’s thorny bushes.
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Strong female major character
Excellent book!
The annual rent is a rose presented to the legacy of the donor of the abbey land. When the rose bush which traditionally provided the rose for the rent is ‘murdered’- as well as a man, Brother Cadfael must solve the mysteries. A benedictine monk, he lives in the 1100s in medieval England in Shrewsbury, near the Welsh border. A one time Crusader who has seen much of the world of his time, he was late in life coming to the cloistered life. He uses what he has learned in the Middle East to run his herbarium near the cloister’s hospital, and to solve the mysteries.
I own all the Brother Caedfel books, but I wanted this one for my kindle library. One of my all time favorite series, favorite detectives, and favorite authors. A mystery intertwined with a compelling love story. Just a lovely, loving book with
a crusader turned monk investigating a cime, and a childless, grieving young widow finding a new meaning in her life.
Wonderful cozy read.
Ellis Peters never disappoints. Well written, intelligent, so enjoyable. I’ve read all the Cadfael books multiple times.
Interesting mystery.
As always, the historical detail adds to the intrigue of the mystery.
She was an excellent author and her series were historical, entertaining, and exciting! Don’t bother watching the TV versions :(( the only thing in common is the title of the work. Get the “real deal” and read!
Love Cadfael and all of the Ellis Peters books!
Brother Cadfael always seems to find himself in a bit of a pickle as he helps the Sheriff solve murders.
Always informative and interesting
the bbc films made from these are excellent.
i love these mysteries.
The mystery is always interesting, but the history is what keeps me coming back to Ellis Peters’ Brother Cadfael stories.
The Cadfael series rarely misses.
One of my favorite books from this series
Great (and accurate) historical context, fascinating insight into the co
Plexigies of the Middle Ages – and a marvelous detective story!
Anything by Ellis Peters is excellent mystery literature: her characterization, description, plot development, understanding of the Christian monastic life, and ability to invite us into that authentic world combine to make a fascinating and enchanting experience every time.